Is this Hopper a good bike ?

So my LBS has an '08 Rockhopper (new) listed for $625. I'm trying to see the V-brakes as a positive thing. I already know how to adjust them, they're lighter, cheap to replace, and of course, the bike is less expensive than a disc brakes model. I'd like your opinions on this.

Also, tell me what you think of the rest of the bike and it's components. I'm clueless judging forks and other bike parts. The other bike I've considered is the Hardrock (no specific model). Is the Hopper worth the extra cash over the Hardrock ? Why ?

Well I got an 09 Rockhopper (base model) in March for $600. I think the list price was $640 but the LBS was willing to negotiate a bit. Might be worth a conversation with the LBS to see if there is any negotiation as you can get an 09 for virtually the same price.

The only thing I will say,because I dont know a ton of info on the Specialized brand, dont make a decision based on disk vs V's. I own bikes with both, as many on here do. And those that do will tell you a nice set of V's will be much nicer than a crap set of disc.

The only thing I will say,because I dont know a ton of info on the Specialized brand, dont make a decision based on disk vs V's. I own bikes with both, as many on here do. And those that do will tell you a nice set of V's will be much nicer than a crap set of disc.

Everybody I personally know who has, or really i should say had BB5's hated them.I hear they suck. I have BB7's, I love them. And again everybody I know that has them loves them, big difference from the 5's. Get V's for now and save for really nice Mech Disc's or go for Hydro's.

Everybody I personally know who has, or really i should say had BB5's hated them.I hear they suck. I have BB7's, I love them. And again everybody I know that has them loves them, big difference from the 5's. Get V's for now and save for really nice Mech Disc's or go for Hydro's.